Hadeland – an art haven near Oslo

With its rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and delicious local food, it’s no wonder Hadeland is often called 'Scandinavia's Tuscany'. Over the years, the region has evolved into a true hub for art lovers, featuring artworks and names most often associated with major global cities, like Yayoi Kusama, Tony Cragg, Marc Quinn, Fernando Botero, and Bjarne Melgaard, to mention a few.

At the centre of this creative haven lies Kistefos Museum, home to The Twist – an architectural masterpiece that functions as a bridge, an art gallery, and a sculpture all in one. Designed by innovative Danish firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), the 60-metre structure elegantly spans the Randselva river, connecting nature, art, and architecture into one seamless experience. The international sensation was declared a must-see by The New York Times.

Inside, contemporary exhibitions are displayed in The Twist, with large glass panels offering views of the surrounding nature and the river below. Outdoors, one of Europe's most impressive sculpture parks invites visitors to explore more than 50 artworks integrated into the landscape.

Kistefos also tells the fascinating story of the area’s industrial heritage, preserving the historic pulp mill that once operated on the same site. The museum blends past and present – from the echoes of Norway’s early industry to the pulse of cutting-edge contemporary art.

Kistefos Museum’s impressive outdoor sculpture park displayed its first artwork in 1948. In 2019, the museum unveiled Shine of Life by Yayoi Kusama – one the world’s most celebrated avant-garde artists, best known for her signature polka dots. Her site-specific installation seems to grow out of the water and is the largest Kusama piece in the Nordic countries. It's inspired by the eternal rhythm of nature and the industrial past of Kistefos.

The sculpture park gained international attention with Path of Silence by Danish artist Jeppe Hein. The large-scale water sculpture made up of mirrors and fountains inspires both curious children and adults to step inside and explore. It's just one example of why this is a great place to bring the whole family.

Hot tip: the sculpture park is open all year round, even outside the museum’s regular opening hours!

Glassblowing galore

Just 3.5 kilometres from Kistefos Museum lies Hadeland Glassverk, Norway’s oldest operational glassworks. Since 1762, Hadeland Glassverk has been a vital arena for industry, arts, and culture. At times, as many as 13 skilled artisans contribute to creating a single piece of glass.

The passionate glassblowers at Hadeland Glassverk let you make your own glass and invite you to its regular glassblowers’ show. Throughout the year, Hadeland Glassverk hosts art exhibitions, theatre performances, concerts, workshops, and family-friendly events – along with opportunities for shopping and discovering unique Norwegian design.

Culinary art

Art lovers who also enjoy delicious food should visit nearby Thorbjørnrud Restaurant and Hotel, just a short walk from Hadeland Glassverk. The hotel utilises fruit, berries, vegetables, and flowers from its own garden. It also works closely with local farms to source fresh its meat, dairy and seasonal produce. You don’t need to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy a tasty meal at Thorbjørnrud.

You can also experience afternoon tea at Thorbjørnrud, where the elegant British tradition is combined with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from Hadeland. When night falls, the hotel also offers outdoor accommodation for those who love glamping.

You should also explore the eastern side of Randsfjorden, where you can go for a local art brunch at Lokstallen in Røykenvik, right by Rachel Whiteread’s installation The Gran Boathouse. In Søsterkirkene you can experience the silence and serenity of the two 12th century churches, built right next to each other! You can also make your way to the Hadeland Folk Museum at Granavollen or pay a visit to the artists and craftsmen at Glasslåven Art Centre.

At the largest astronomical facility in Northern Europe, you can go from open air to outer space. The solar observatory Solobservatoriet by the small town of Harestua offers guided tours, festivals and fun activities.

"Hadeland is just an hour away from the capital Oslo, and an even shorter distance to Oslo Airport," says Mette Stenersen, formerly at Visit Innlandet.

Art has long traditions in the region, she adds: “Many artists have found inspiration here in the past and many more are discovering the region today. The evidence of this is hanging on the walls of Hadeland’s many privately owned hotels. Not all artists could pay for their stay and many were allowed to settle their bill with a painting.”